(a) Except when another cost effective method of transportation is available, the secretary of corrections may contract with qualified individuals, partnerships or corporations for the purpose of transporting individuals in the secretary’s custody, including the exchange of inmates with other states and the return of individuals who have violated the conditions of their parole or conditional release.

(b) The secretary of corrections shall require that any party desiring to enter into such a contract have adequate levels of liability insurance.

(c) The secretary of corrections shall require the contracting party to present evidence of training for its employees prior to transporting any individual.

(d) An individual engaged in transportation pursuant to a contract with the secretary of corrections shall have the authority of a person assisting a law enforcement officer as provided in Kan. Stat. Ann. § 21-5227, and amendments thereto.

(e) The secretary of corrections shall adopt such rules and regulations as necessary to implement the provisions of this section.